Question

A student uses a computer simulation to model waves traveling through water at a constant speed. The simulation allows the student to change the frequency, amplitude, and wavelength of the waves.



Which change to the model would result in the waves carrying more energy?



A.
decrease the frequency while keeping amplitude constant

B.
increase the amplitude while keeping frequency constant

C.
decrease the amplitude while keeping frequency constant

D.
increase the wavelength while keeping amplitude constant

Answer 1

B. increase the amplitude while keeping frequency constant

Reason: For mechanical waves (including water waves) the energy transported depends strongly on the amplitude (energy ∝ amplitude^2), so increasing amplitude increases the wave energy. Increasing wavelength (at constant speed) reduces frequency and thus reduces energy; decreasing amplitude or frequency lowers energy.